Bonnaroo Starts Off With A Bang — Fireworks Over Manchester

One of the first things that you notice about this festival is that there are just so damned many people crammed into a tiny space. It’s seemingly relatively peaceful, save for the fireworks going off all night in the campground. We managed to get here about 10 hours earlier than the festival opened, so Nathan and I definitely got to see the crazy side of the event up close and personal. I think it was in my third hour of sleep, before I was awakened by the heat, that I realized that the festival is divided into two cities — like most cities, those are the haves and the have-nots.

If you’re coming, don’t bring ANY glass bottles. I am told that the website does not make this distinction, saying only that you’re allowed to bring in “a case of beer” — that case of beer cannot be in bottles. Poor Nathan lost his 12-pack on the way in, and the same will happen to you.

The festival is nearly sold out, but there seem to be a lot of people with tickets. Be very, very careful buying any tickets off of the street. I shouldn’t have to tell you this, but I worry. You know.

Tonight, I’m looking forward to seeing and talking with David Cross at the Comedy Tent, Mute Math and, of course The National. See you at the ‘Roo!

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